By Seth Metoyer, The Metal Crawlspace -
"Hey dude! Just grabbing the Vengeance mail!" As I reflect on this memory, I'm mindful of the complexities that accompany figures like Roger Martinez. Over the years, I understand that he has faced criticism and controversy, and some feel betrayed by his actions and departure from the faith. However, in recounting my first interaction with Roger, I choose to focus on the positive—an encounter marked by genuine passion, camaraderie, and a shared love for music. While acknowledging the tumultuous journey that followed, I hold onto this memory as a testament to the profound impact that individuals like Roger have had on the Christian Metal community. Rather than dwelling on the negatives, I choose to celebrate the moments of connection and inspiration that continue to resonate within me.
In the realm of Christian Metal, certain figures and moments hold a special place in our memories. For many, Roger Martinez of Vengeance Rising stands as a beacon of the genre's fervor and intensity. My own journey with Roger began with Vengeance Rising's first four albums, each carrying a distinct energy that left an indelible mark on my musical consciousness.
One particular memory stands out vividly, etched in the realm of Sanctuary International, a haven for Christian Metal enthusiasts spearheaded by Pastor Bob Beeman. It was sometime in later 1993, and I had relocated to Redondo Beach in 1992 to immerse myself in the community centered around Sanctuary. Little did I know, I would encounter Roger Martinez himself within those sacred office walls.
I recall the day distinctly; I was at the Sanctuary Office, a hub that housed the Sanctuary 800 lines, merch shipments, ministry outreach materials, and several metal band's snail mailboxes. Suddenly, the door swung open, and in walked Roger Martinez with a couple of items in his hands. With a hyper, yet casual demeanor and a warm greeting, he explained his purpose: to check the Vengeance Rising mailbox. As he sifted through the mail, his eyes landed on a secular metal magazine, a treasure trove of information back then for any metal enthusiast.
Roger's expression shifted as he perused the magazine, disappointment evident on his face. "Man, what a bunch of nonsense," he remarked, referencing a review of Vengeance's latest album, "Released Upon the Earth." I could tell it was an older issue as "RUTE" had been released the previous year, and he probably hadn't been over to check the mail in a while. Though I can't recall the exact publication, the review's sentiment lingered—a critique of the album's departure from its predecessors, leaving Roger disheartened yet undeterred.
Amidst the disappointment, a spark ignited within Roger's eyes as he reached a revelation. Turning to me with a newfound enthusiasm, he placed a CD on the counter that he'd been carrying around—it had a spine-with-hands cover and a peace sign. "This right here, man," Roger declared, "this is massive. This is what I want the next Vengeance album to sound like."
The CD in question? None other than "Heartwork" by Carcass (an advanced copy from what I remember since Heartwork didn't release in the US until early '94), a seminal masterpiece in the realm of death metal (he also had the band's release "Necroticism - Descanting The Insalubrious", pictured at the top of this page and was showing me how amazing the photo concept was). At that moment, Roger's passion and vision for the future of Vengeance Rising crystallized, fueled by the relentless intensity and innovation of Carcass's sound. Sadly, we never got to hear whether or not Roger's future vision for Vengeance would deliver a Carcass-Heartwork-influenced sound.
And just like that, he said "Catch you later bro!", and he disappeared almost as quickly as he had appeared. I realized after he'd gone that he didn't even ask me my name, and I didn't speak much except for "Hey", "Nice", and "Cool, later bro". I was a 20-year-old introvert, what can you expect? He just acted like he knew me and that I was one of his bros. From what I've heard, he treated everyone like that back then. It was part of his charm.
Reflecting on that encounter, I am reminded of the profound impact that musicians like Roger Martinez have had on the Christian metal community. Beyond the music itself, it's the shared moments, the conversations, and the shared passion for authenticity that bind us together.
As I look back on my time at Sanctuary International in California, I am grateful for the memories forged there—the camaraderie, the music, and the transformative encounters that continue to shape my journey in faith and metal.
In the tapestry of Christian Metal history, Roger Martinez's legacy endures a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire, challenge, and unite us in our shared pursuit of truth and expression.